The 9 Best Things to Do This Week in Guangzhou

Wed-Sun, May 15-26: The Wizard of Oz (Musical)

Image via Guangzhou Opera House

Based on the 1939 namesake film, The Wizard of Oz the musical has been captivating audiences of all ages since opening in 2011, when the familiar movie characters were put on stage to tell a time-tested fantasy through music. Pop and rock music giants such as Pink Floyd, Metallica and Madonna have all saluted the author of the original book with their music. This month, the original Broadway version arrives in Guangzhou. Come meet Dorothy, Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and other wonderful figures somewhere over the rainbow.

Wed, May 15: Rudolf Buchbinder

One of the world’s top classical pianist today, Rudolf Buchbinder has enjoyed an international repute throughout his career, which spans five decades. The golden hall of Musikverein in Vienna, Carnegie Hall in New York and The Berliner Philharmonie have all hosted Buchbinder’s top-of-the-line performances, where the Austrian musician collaborated with world-renowned orchestras. His interpretation of Beethoven is widely recognized in the classical music domain, and Beethoven is what he will be performing at Xinghai Concert Hall this week.

Wed, May 15: Yi-Gather Meetup

The Yi-Gather Meetup is a monthly event where people give short talks about the personal narratives behind the things that they do: occupations, projects, creative work, academic pursuits, hobbies and interests. It offers an opportunity to learn something new, make friends and network, within the inspiring location of the Yi-Gather Community in Ximenkou. Talks are presented in English and open to everyone.

Fri, May 17: The Royal Concept

From the indie-sunshine pop of their early sound to the band’s glam-inspired follow-up, The Royal Concept has people bopping their heads the world over. With their latest release, The Man Without Qualities, the upbeat Swedish quartet – vocals, guitar, bass and drums – brings their enthusiastic sound to Guangzhou’s Mao Livehouse this week.

Fri, May 17: Bach’s Six Brandenburg Concertos

Image via Xinghai Concert Hall

Led by Danish harpsichordist Lars Ulrik Mortensen, Concerto Copenhagen will perform Bach’s complete Brandenburg Concertos with original baroque settings in Guangzhou. This masterpiece is regarded as the pinnacle in the history of baroque concertos, and is among the most universally admired of all Bach’s works. Classical music lovers, make sure you don’t miss out.

Fri, May 17: Pink Your Gin Party at Sky Bar

Image via Langham Place, Guangzhou

Langham Place, Guangzhou is partnering with Beefeater London Pink Gin to organize a ‘Pink Your Gin’ experience for Guangzhouers. Attendees can enjoy music and a photo shoot, as well as participate in a cocktail-making session hosted by guest bartender Ocean Sun, who will whip up beverages infused with strawberries, juniper and citrus. Tickets to this event include two pink gin cocktails and snacks. Advanced reservation is highly recommended.

Sat, May 18: AmCham Spring Ball

Image courtesy of AmCham South China

Ladies and gents, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for: AmCham South China’s Spring Ball, which will be held on May 18 and is titled ‘The Greatest Show.’ If you have never attended one of AmCham’s fantastic events, you’ve been seriously missing out. Their events are famous across the Greater Bay Area for their impressive performances, prestigious attendees and delightful food and wine. It’s guaranteed to be a blockbuster night, due in part to the fact it is being held at the always-fabulous LN Garden Hotel, Guangzhou. The Spring Ball is also the perfect chance to mingle with the who’s who of the Guangzhou expat community, rub shoulders with local business leaders and, heck, you might even meet someone special there! (One member of the That’s PRD team, who we’ll leave unnamed, actually met her husband at an AmCham event). Scan the QR code below to reserve your tickets.

Sat, May 18: Live Bands at Rebel Rebel

Image courtesy of promoter

Rock till you drop this Saturday evening at Rebel Rebel, where three awesome China-based bands, Slo Pony, Easy Tiger and The Bad Astronauts, are set to hit the stage. Enjoy a free pint of Tiger with any Rebel pie purchase (available until 10pm).

Ongoing: Sunflower Chicken at Ming Court

Image via Langham Place, Guangzhou

The birds used in the creation of ‘sunflower chicken’ are fed with fresh sunflowers and the plant’s leaves. They are also nourished with a juice made from sunflower stems. This process leaves their flesh tender and sweet, with more vitamin E than ordinary chickens. At Ming Court, chefs prepare this succulent dish without the addition of sauces, which ensures you will enjoy the natural flavor of the bird meat. Enjoy a whole sunflower chicken for RMB588, or a half chicken for RMB388.

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